Question:
I have bilirubin, ketones, and white blood cells in my urine, why?

I am 7 mos. post-op. My family dr. ordered urine and blood tests a few weeks ago. Her nurse called me to say my dr. wanted the urine test done a 2nd time, because of white blood cells in my urine. The nurse contacted me again today to say they wanted it run a third time. She said that they wanted to have another type of urine test done, to make sure the urine hadn't been contaminated. I am fairly certain the urine wasn't contaminated, because I was told the 2nd test was designed to check for contamination. I am not in pain. Although, I now have cramping in the front during my period. Before surgery I very rarely had cramping and it had always been s minor irritation in the small of my back. I am 40 and figured the new cramping had something to do with aging. I have searched this site for answers and can't find one. The answers about ketones are contradictory and the ones about bilirubin are just plain scary. If you can help I'd greatly appreciate it. Leica    — Leica R. (posted on December 9, 2005)

December 9, 2005
Leica, Ketones in the urine result from either diabetic ketosis or some other form of calorie deprivation. White blood cells may appear in urine with infection in either the upper or lower urinary tract or with acute glomerulonephritis. Bilirubin is not normally found in urine. If it is present, it usually means the liver is damaged or the flow of bile from the gallbladder is blocked. The second/third test is to make sure there was not a lob error or it was just a transitory blip. Make sure you are not having your period when giving the specimen, microscopic contamination can throw the whole thing off. The "other type of test" is usually getting a sample by inserting a catheter in your bladder. Kepp us informed and best wishes!!
   — nursenut

December 9, 2005
I should have written that I had my gallbladder removed about ten years ago. I read that ketones contribute to more rapid weight loss. My weight loss has been very slow. I started at about 400 and am now still 275. I do have a slow thyroid, but I am taking synthroid. My endocrinologist seems perplexed; I once lost only 2 pounds in 3 weeks. If it hadn't been for eating like a bird, I would have gained during that time. Thank, Leica
   — Leica R.